Assane Diao

Assane Diao Diaoune (born 7 September 2005) is a professional footballer who plays as a winger for Real Betis. Born in Senegal, he is a youth international for Spain.

Club career
Diao is a youth product of Badajoz, Flecha Negra and Balón de Cádiz, before moving to the youth academy of Real Betis in 2021, on a contract until 2024. Originally a midfielder, his attacking skills led to him being molded in to a left winger, and he started playing with the reserves in the Segunda Federación in 2022.

On 26 July 2023, Diao extended his contract with the club until 2027. He made his senior and professional debut with the Verdiblancos as a late substitute in a 1–0 Europa League loss to Rangers on 21 September 2023. Later that month, on 28 September, he scored his first goal on his La Liga debut in a 1–1 awy draw against Granada. A week later, on 5 October, he netted his first goal in European competitions in a 2–1 victory over Sparta Prague.

International career
Born in Senegal, Diao moved to Spain at the age of three and has dual citizenship. He played for the nation's under-19 team at the 2023 UEFA European Under-19 Championship.

Style of play
Originally a midfielder, Diao is a strong, and powerful winger who is great at crossing the ball. Primarily right-footed, he is strong with both feet. He has a powerful technique, and strong heading ability.

Personal life
Diao has a twin brother, Ousseynou, who is also a youth footballer in Spain.